Unlike humans, who rely on sight and hearing for their communication with the world, most living organisms gather the necessary information about their environment typically using the "language of chemical signals": they detect chemical substances that come from other organisms, of the same or different species, recording vital messages for their survival and continuation.
Many of these substances, specifically those exchanged among members of the same species, are called pheromones (from the Greek words φέρω and ορμή) and provide information about lurking dangers, available food sources, defined territories, as well as the reproductive status of individuals of the opposite sex.
In this book, Agosta explores the chemistry of pheromones and the mechanisms by which pheromones dictate aspects of animal behavior, while simultaneously detailing the complex processes of matching each pheromone with specific behavior, its isolation, and the identification of its active components.
Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of the continuously increasing scientific data emerging for understanding evolution, ecology, human behavior, as well as established agricultural techniques.
"Chemical Communication" covers the entire spectrum of living beings, from simple organisms, such as slime molds and brown algae, to insects, fish, reptiles, birds, mammals, and concludes with an exceptionally interesting, yet provocative, chapter on pheromones in humans.
Along the way, the author provides dozens of examples of pheromonal action: a beetle finds a pine tree of its liking and shortly after, a real invasion of beetles ensues. The injured fish approaches its school, but its companions scatter in panic. Male snakes "impersonate" females, misleading their rivals and increasing their chances of mating with the sought-after female. Young female mice enter the phase of sexual maturity as soon as an adult male appears.
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